Call to work for democratic Pakistan

LAHORE
Women Action Forum on the occasion of the Pakistan Women Day Thursday acknowledged Pakistani women’s struggle for an egalitarian, democratic and progressive society in the country.
On February 12, the Forum salutes heroism of all people, especially women.
The February 12 marks a milestone in the history of the women’s movement when on this day in 1983 women defied dictatorship of Zia-ul-Haq by taking out a public demonstration in Lahore despite martial law regulations.
This demonstration became the symbol of women’s resistance to all forms of oppression and of their unshakeable belief in an equal, equitable and just democratic order guaranteeing the full compendium of human rights for all.
Since 1981, the Women’s Action Forum has consistently fought to protect and promote women’s rights and human rights for all.
On this day, the WAF reiterates that unless Pakistan becomes a secular state with a single uniform legal system, negative trends cannot be arrested and will destroy the very polity of the country.
The WAF resolves to continue its struggle in conjunction with others to reclaim the country from all social, political and anti-democratic forces that stand in the way of a progressive, humane and just Pakistan.
The WAF urges civil society to join the forum to work for democratic and tolerant Pakistan where every citizen enjoys equality and dignity.